Monterey Bay

Escape to a Roman Trattoria at il vecchio in Pacific Grove

Just a stone’s throw away from bustling Cannery Row sits one of the most authentic Italian meals you will find outside of the Coliseum. il vecchio (meaning the old style) has been a hot spot for locals and visitors since its opening in 2011.

The unexpected Italian mecca is just off of Lighthouse Avenue in Pacific Grove, a few blocks up from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. As soon as you enter into il vecchio’s quaint quarters be prepared to be accepted as part of the famiglia. Its hospitable atmosphere permeates throughout the eatery with cozy rustic interior, a roaring fireplace and an almost overly-attentive staff. The menu is just as inviting with all sorts of simple Italian classic dishes to choose from.

Before you carbo-load it’s important to start with a solid protein base. Go ahead and order your glass of Chianti while perusing the tempting antipasti menu. Might we suggest the modest, yet delightful, burrata and prosciutto?

No Italian meal is complete without an abundance of carbs! Pasta offerings take up most of the menu with everything from gnocchi, spaghetti, cannelloni to rigatoni. Pastas are about as authentic as they come, made fresh daily, and are served al dente.

The house-made gnocchi in tomato sauce and pesto spaghetti are classic comfort choices!

For those looking for something on the richer side of life, try the tonnarelli alla carbonara complete with pork bits, egg, pecorino and black pepper.

Hope you saved room for dessert! “Docle” is taken seriously at il vecchio with a variety of choices to satisfy that sweet tooth including limoncello sorbet, cannoli, tiramisu and an assortment of gelatos.

For something new try “the prince,” a Florentine recipe consisting of a strawberry and balsamic reduction puree served warm over creamy vanilla gelato. Now that’s amore!

Aside from a killer dinner menu, il vecchio also serves an unbeatable Workers Lunch for just $10.85 and a Sunday Brunch with unique offerings like a baked bread pudding with apples and raisins and a rustic omelet baked in a cast-iron skillet.

Author: Allyson Ryan

As the Content Marketing Manager at the Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Allyson manages digital marketing and social media for SeeMonterey. If she's not taking scenic pictures around the county, you are likely to find her on the Monterey Bay Coastal Rec Trail, sipping wine in Carmel Valley, or hiking in Big Sur.